Everest-Base-Camp and other Treks

Ram is very familiar with virtually all trekking-routes in Nepal

Probably the most popular trek is the route to the Everest Base Camp. The not so busy touring routes in the Manaslu Conservation Area are becoming increasingly popular. Some sort of insider tip, though not gone very often from Ram, is the Langtang Valley. Here, tourism has scarcely left any traces. Also the trek may be advisable because the area was extremely hit by the earthquake and every visit is also a support for the development of the region. Also for other tour suggestions Ram is of course open and happy to help with the more concrete planning. Ideal would of course be a meeting spot (Kathmandu or Pokhara), in which you can discuss the tour and individual stages together and in peace. The following are some basic information about the tours at Everest Base Camp, the Langtang Valley and the Manaslu Round. Moreover, Ram can offer guided tours for the Upper Mustang Trek and Mardihimal Basecamp.

Guided Tour to the Everest Base Camp

With his trekking license Ram is allowed to guide treks to the South Everest Base Camp in Nepal (5364m; the North Base Camp in Tibet on 5150m). The track is one of the most popular hiking trails in the world and famous for the spectacular views and the friendly and open-minded population. Normally you fly from Kathmandu to Lukla, since no roads from Kathmandu lead to this starting point (trekking to Lukla is theoretically possible, apparently, but – to save time and energy – are rarely made). Although generally it can be hiked all year round in the Khumbu region, the best times are March to May and September to November.

Mount Everest, the highest mountain in the world (8848 m) is called by the Nepalese Sagarmatha (goddess of the sky) and can be seen on this tour with your own eyes. The consistently beautiful scenery offers further incentive for the demanding but rewarding route. The trek itself (starting from Lukla) takes approximately 15 days, the pace is, however, of course adapted to your individual condition. Generally, a sufficient acclimatization must be respected. The tour begins cozy and optional resting days offer enough opportunity to adapt to the altitude. However, altitude sickness is often underestimated. It can start from as little heights of 2000m in many people and ends at worst deadly! Watch for early signs (e.g .: headache, nausea, rapid heart beat) and react in time. Take a day off to rest when it comes to moderate discomfort. If this doesn’t help, usually a descend to 500-1000 m is adviced (for more informations, follow the link below).

The more unaffected Langtang Valley

The Langtang Valley was hit extremely by the earthquake (the villages Langtang Village and Bagmati were completely destroyed and many people died). If you believe the information from the Internet, the region is still under construction, but is again fully accessible. The destroyed roads were restored and even in villages some lodges are operating again. When Ram will be there the next time in person, more detailed information will follow. Otherwise, you can probably only encourage everyone to go there and with the visit to support the local population.

Some Impressions of the Langtang Valley

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A few photos of the Langtang Valley in 2012 (the places may look different now, because the all the photos were shot before the earthquake in 2015, which caused massive damage).

As on Manaslu Round, there are also significantly fewer hikers in the Langtang Valley. A special feature is certainly the close proximity to Tibet (former trade route) and the predominantly Tibetan culture, which is also noticeable in the traditional clothes of the local population. The area over a certain altitude is also the natural home of the yaks (caution, the animals can be dangerous). The valley is located north of Kathmandu and regular starting points in Dhunche or Syabru Bensi are easily accessible by bus. It makes sense to start the tour by ascending in several stages by Kyanjing Gompa (3900m). Here you will find yourself at an altitude at which makes the low air pressure noticeable. From here, various day trips can be taken. Places to visit there are, for example, adjacent glaciers or a scenic view on the top of Tserko Ri (about 5000m). The fee for the Langtang National Park is approximately $ 35 (can be purchased in Thamel), you also need a trekking permit.

Trekking in the Manaslu Conservation Area

The Manaslu Trek can also be hiked in just one round (14 days). The difficulty can be compared with the Annapurna Circuit or the trek to Everest Base Camp. Again, there is much to admire. Nature often changes in its character, the views of the surrounding mountains is huge and culturally the area has with both Buddhist and Hindu influences a lot to offer.

Overall there are far fewer tourists on this trek. Essentially, this is attributed to two reasons: firstly, formerly the stay in a tent was inevitable and the comfort accordingly was probably too low for many people (this was probably only in the past, for the current situation Ram will be asked). Secondly, you need a special permit to trek (which can only be booked through the guide or agency) that just fell in the price in the recent years ($ 50 per week). The starting point is in Arughat and can be reached by bus from Kathmandu (about 5 hours). For special day trips or variations of the round please check with Ram.